Starting from today a pre departure test will no longer be needed to enter Ireland for fully vaccinated visitors. In the case of England, the same applies starting from tomorrow morning!
As of today, fully vaccinated travellers heading to Ireland will no longer need to be tested for coronavirus prior to travel. England will introduce the same changes starting from tomorrow morning. The Reason? Representatives of both countries say that these restrictions have a limited impact on the development of the omicron variant, which in both countries is already responsible for the majority of new infections.
England tightened its entry regulations in early December when, due to the rapid development of a new coronavirus variant, it announced that all travelkers, regardless of vaccination status, would have to test (PCR or antigen) negative before entering the country. From 4am local time on Friday, this requirement will no longer apply to fully vaccinated individuals (two doses), and to children and adolescents under 18 years . This is not the only change for the vaccinated: from next Sunday, 9 January, fully vaccinated people will be able to do an antigen test instead of the expensive PCR test on the second day they arrive in England
Unvaccinated travellers, will have to continue to test themselves before traveling, as well as undergo PCR tests on days 2 and 8 of their stay in England, and a 10-day quarantine.
The obligation to undergo pre-travel testing “discourages many from travelling for fear of being trapped overseas and incurring significant extra expense,” said Boris Johnson, UK Prime Minister.
A similar policy has already been introduced by Ireland – here, too, from the beginning of December, all travelers had to present a negative PCR or antigen test result for coronavirus upon entry. Now that will change: Fully vaccinated people will not be subject to this requirement starting from today. Unvaccinated people will still have to submit a negative PCR test for coronavirus within 72 hours of travel. Irish Prime Minister Michael Martin admitted that the requirement of testing for everyone did not limit the development of the omicron variant in the country. It is now responsible for 96 percent of all new cases in Ireland
Traveling soon? Get your Holafly eSIM for unlimited internet access in any destination. No more worrying about roaming charges or finding local SIM cards. Enjoy unlimited data and stay connected with ease. Order your Holafly eSIM now »
Heymondo offers a wide range of travel assistance insurance policies. They combine the best quality, service and price with various levels of coverage, so you’re covered on your weekend getaways and long trips. Buy insurance »